MacBook Camera Not Working: How to Fix It

Owners of Apple Laptops may face a situation when a MacBook camera is not working. In this article, we will consider the main causes of this problem. We will also offer a step-by-step guide on how to troubleshoot the problem without going to a repair shop.

Why is my MacBook camera not working

MacBook Pro or MacBook Air camera may not work for the following reasons:

• something blocks the lens;
• contaminated lens;
• software failures;
• the software has not set the camera authorization;
• an outdated version of macOS.

7 tips how to fix the camera on MacBook

First, pay attention to the camera indicator light. If it is blinking instead of lighting green, you will most likely need to call a professional technician for help. In other cases, you should try to fix the MacBook camera problem yourself.

Step 1. Check if the webcam is not closed

Remove the case, cover, and various metal and magnetic accessories. Also, make sure that the camera is free of any film that may cover the lens.

Step 2. Clean the lens

One of the causes of the camera not working on the MacBook is the webcam may simply be dirty. Wipe the lens with a microfiber cloth to remove dust. For more serious dirt, use a special screen cleaner. A 50/50 mixture of distilled water and isopropyl alcohol, which is designed to clean electronics, is the best choice.

If debris has gotten inside the lens or the lens is physically damaged, seek professional help.

Also: Sound on MacBook Not Working: How to Fix It

Step 3. Reboot your device and try another app

A simple reboot sometimes helps to delete outdated data and to fix the MacBook camera. Press and hold the On/Off button for a few seconds before the restart process begins.

You can also check your webcam in another application. For example, if you use FaceTime, try Photo Booth.

Step 4. Check permissions

If your laptop is running macOS Mojave or newer, select which software can use the camera:

1. From the Apple menu, go to System Preferences.
2. Select the section that is responsible for security and privacy from the list.
3. Click on "Privacy", and select "Camera" in the sidebar
4. Make sure the application you are using the webcam in is listed.
5. The system may suggest closing and opening the software, which you will have to agree to.

Step 5. Check if the screen time settings are correct

On MacBooks running the Catalina operating system, the Screen Time option is available. It is used to track the amount of time a user spends on the web and in applications. Verify that the camera is turned on and that there are no restrictions on its use.

1. Through the Apple standard menu, go to the system settings section and click on "Screen Time".
2. Click on "Content and Privacy" and then on "Apps".
3. Check if the camera checkbox is checked. If not, check it.
4. Go to "Application Restrictions" in the side panel.
5. Uncheck the "Restrictions" checkbox in the application you use to operate the camera.

Step 6. Update the software

It is important to install macOS updates regularly to avoid problems with the operation of various programs and components.

Check for updates:

1. Tap the Apple symbol at the top left of the screen.
2. Open "System Preferences" and go to the "Software Update" section.
3. If there are updates, click on "Update Now".

To automatically install updates in the future, check the box next to "Automatically update my Mac".

Step 7. Reset the settings to factory defaults

In some cases, this helps to solve the problem of not working MacBook camera, but it's a crucial method that is used if nothing else helps. Before resetting, back up your MacBook data as everything except basic programs and applications will be deleted. If this step doesn't work either, contact Apple service for help.

If the MacBook camera is not working due to physical damage, or if liquid has gotten inside the camera or display, you may need to replace them. On the Apple Parts website, you can find original displays or other spare parts for different MacBook models. Only original spare parts are in the assortment of the store, there are no counterfeits and cheaper analogs. You will also be pleasantly surprised by affordable prices and fast delivery.

If you are not sure that you can replace the parts yourself, order the repair at Apple Parts by mail. Service technicians will quickly find the cause of why the MacBook camera is not working and offer the best solution. After the invoice is paid, we will send your MacBook back within 1–2 days.

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